8 June, 2020
I am excited to introduce myself as a candidate for Hopkinton School Committee.
My husband and I moved to Hopkinton in 1998. We have three daughters: Taegan, a 6th grader, Callie-Rose attending Clark in the Fall, and Courtney who is working in special education.
Going through each school actively volunteering in both the community and schools, I have gained a broad perspective of our entire system, and an in-depth view of our childrens’ classroom experiences.
I am serving my sixth year on School Council and am Chair of the Hopkinton Youth Commission (HYC). HYC brought SAT/ACT and college prep courses to students while also securing financial assistance. HYC developed a gift card program, an avenue for residents to donate gift cards that are issued to Hopkinton residents through YFS and school guidance departments. HYC has continued to develop MLK Day to engage a larger population of our Hopkinton youth and families through programming and activities. We also participate at Hopkinton 101, Family Day, Health Fair, Day of Recovery, Fishing Derby, and Police Night Out.
Last year, I was a part of the visioning team behind the Bridge, a sub-committee of the School Committee. Working with the Bridge the committee has provided essential needs such as snacks within all our school buildings, headphones, boots, coats, and school supplies.
Last January I initiated the first Diversity and Inclusion Training collaboration between the School Committee and HYC to build a foundation of education around diversity and inclusion. Participating members included the School Committee, school administration, SRO, YFS and the HYC.
I served on the HPS Bullying Prevention and Intervention committee in 2013, and the revision committee in 2018. I implemented the New Resident Ice Cream Social in collaboration with HPS which is now in its third successful year.
Throughout the years, I have been one of the founders of the Hopkinton Moms Group, Library story time coordinator, Girl Scouts leader, volunteer at Serenity House, Enrichment Coordinator, Community Coordinator and a classroom parent.
The school committee meetings I attend are motivated by my desire to be involved and educated about the direction of our schools. I have a record of seeking increased accountability and transparency over issues around the school budget, advocating for students and valuing our educational leaders. I'm passionate about advocating for our youths’ educational experience, but also their social and emotional health. Challenges our school budget faces due to the growth impact, and recently the financial impact to communities due to the pandemic, are expected to create additional hurdles over the next few years. It’s a time when fiduciary responsibility is especially important to mitigate tax impact on residents while maintaining class sizes and educational supports to meet the needs of all learners.
I look forward to the opportunity to engage our community while working with town leadership ensuring Hopkinton schools continue to provide an excellent educational experience. I will be a voice for our students and our community. I would be honored to have your support.
Respectfully,
Dawn Ronan
